News for the TSS and Global Talent visa schemes! By the end of 2024, two major updates will roll out by replacing two highly sought-after skilled visas Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) (Sc 482) and Global Talent (Sc 858) to the Skills in Demand (SID) visa (Sc 482) and the National Innovation Visa (NIV) (Sc 858).

Here’s what’s new and what these visas offer:

Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Sc 482)

The SID visa will replace the current TSS visa, offering a clearer path to permanent residency and a more streamlined process for employers and skilled workers.

What’s New with the SID Visa?

• Three Streams to Suit Different Skills:
  • Specialist Skills Stream: For high earners (AUD 135,000+), excluding trades and manual labour.
  • Core Skills Stream: For skilled workers in key occupations with a minimum income threshold.
  • Labour Agreement Stream: Replaces the TSS Labour Agreement stream with the same tailored employment solutions.
• Reduced Work Experience Requirement: Only one year of experience is required, making the visa more accessible to skilled professionals.
• Direct Sponsorship: Similar to the TSS, applicants must be sponsored by an approved employer to ensure alignment with Australia’s labour needs.

Once the SID visa is introduced, new applications for the TSS visa will close. We are currently working with our clients to lodge as many TSS applications as possible prior to the stipulated change. If you already have an application in the pipeline with us, please be assured we are working tirelessly to get this lodged with priority. In the event the change occurs before there is an opportunity to submit the application, we will advise of eligibility to apply for the SID visa (most TSS applicants will still be permitted to apply through this pathway).

National Innovation Visa (NIV) (Sc 858)

Replacing the Global Talent visa, the NIV is designed to bring high-impact talent to Australia from fields like research, business, and the arts. With an invitation-only process, applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invite to apply.

Who is the NIV For?

• Top Researchers: Academics with international recognition or published works in leading journals.
• Innovative Entrepreneurs: Both seasoned and emerging entrepreneurs.
• Impactful Investors: Those focused on meaningful investments rather than simple monetary thresholds.
• Artists and Athletes: Talented individuals who represent Australia on the global stage.

Quick Comparison of the SID and NIV

	SID Visa (Sc 482) – Specialist Skills Stream	SID Visa (Sc 482) – Specialist Skills Stream
Applicant profile	Highly skilled, earning at least $135,000, with an employer sponsor	Internationally recognised record of exceptional talent, prominent in their field
Visa length	Up to 4 years (with pathway to permanent residency)	Direct to permanent residence
Sponsorship requirement	Must have an approved sponsor	Must be nominated via approved form 1000
English	Competent English	Functional English or pay second VAC
Age	Any age (PR requirements are separate)	Any age
Occupation restrictions	Almost any occupation except trades workers, machinery operators and drivers, and labourers	No occupation restrictions
Grants each program year	Demand driven

These changes simplify the visa process and open up more opportunities for top talent and skilled workers. With quicker paths to permanent residency, Australia is making it easier for skilled professionals to settle and thrive.

Need Help? For guidance on how these new visa options may suit you, reach out to us at [email protected]